Blanket with multiple functionality and system

ABSTRACT

A blanket with multiple functionality and a system for organizing articles with the blanket is disclosed and described. This multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to provide comfort and protection from the elements to a user. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of the blanket to various objects, such as to strollers and to child-carriers by an edge-attachment-means. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit holding of various articles in at least one pocket. The at least one pocket may be in direct communication with the blanket and may be integral with the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket may further comprise a means for removably tethering the various articles to the at least one pocket, such that loss of the article may be mitigated.

PRIORITY NOTICE

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/832,044 filed on Jun. 6,2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERAL SPONSORSHIP

No part of this invention was a result of any federally sponsoredresearch.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to blankets with multiple functionalityand to systems for organizing articles with such blankets, wherein suchmultiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to provide:comfort and protection from the elements to a user; removable attachmentof the blanket to strollers and to child-carriers; and holding articlesin at least one pocket; wherein the at least one pocket may compriseadditional features such as tethers and/or insulation.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may containmaterial that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registeredtrademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with theapplicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example andshould not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of thisinvention to material associated only with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known that infants, and to a lesser degree toddlers, and to alesser degree still may require traveling with various objects tofacilitate ease of transportation. Such objects may include the physicalmeans for assisting in safe transportation, such as strollers, car seats(including booster car seats), and infant carriers (described aschild-carriers herein). Additionally because of their small size, theyare prone to becoming too cold in even mild weather. Thus, it is oftendesirable to transport such individuals with various blankets to at aminimum provide some degree of comfort and possibly warmth to theseindividuals. In addition, these individuals also often travel withvarious articles, with various children's articles. Such articles maycomprise handheld items, i.e. items that may be held in one hand of aninfant, toddler, child, or small adult. Such articles may comprise: babybottles, sippy cups, water bottles, handheld snacks, handheld food,pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheld books, and the like.

And as any parent, guardian, babysitter, and caregiver can attest to,such individuals routinely drop and/or lose such articles, where in theprocess of such loss, even if only a temporary loss while driving,translates into frustration, annoyance, and aggravation for the parent,guardian, babysitter, and caregiver.

There is a need in the art for a blanket that may be removably attachedto such strollers and/or child-carriers such that the blanket itselfdoes not become easily lost or misplaced. In addition, there is a needin the art for a blanket that may provide a means for associating sucharticles with the blanket, so as to mitigate against such loss.

It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize otherlimitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding thepresent specification, the present invention describes a blanket withmultiple functionality and a system for organizing articles with theblanket. This multiple functionality may comprise the blanketfunctioning to provide comfort and protection from the elements to auser. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality maycomprise the blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of theblanket to various objects, such as to strollers and to child-carriersby an edge-attachment-means. In various exemplary embodiments, thismultiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permitholding of various articles in at least one pocket. The at least onepocket may be in direct communication with the blanket and may beintegral with the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocketmay further comprise a means for removably tethering the variousarticles to the at least one pocket, such that loss of the article maybe mitigated.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a blanket thatmay be used by a user to provide comfort.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may be used by a user to provide warm.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may be used by a user to provide protection from the elements, i.e.the blanket may be waterproof and/or windproof.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may be removably attached to a stroller, such that a user ridingwithin the stroller may receive the benefit of the blanket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may be removably attached to a child-carrier, such at a user ridingwithin the child-carrier may receive the benefits of the blanket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket for holding (storing, containing)various articles associated with infants, toddlers, children, and/orsmall adults.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may be integral with theblanket, wherein the at least one pocket may be permanently attached tothe blanket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may be removable from theblanket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may be configured as a bottleholder, utilizing elastomeric materials that may frictionally grip thebottle being removably held within the at least one pocket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may be substantiallysurrounded (bounded) by insulating materials such that the at least onepocket may be an insulated-pocket, wherein the insulated-pocket mayprotecting articles being removably held within the insulated-pocketfrom heating and/or cooling too quickly.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may further comprise atethering means (leashing means) for removably attaching an article tothe at least one pocket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may further comprise atethering means (leashing means), wherein the tethering means mayremovably attach a bottle and/or a pacifier to the at least one pocket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise at least one pocket that may comprise an opening,wherein the opening may be removably closed (sealed).

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise a second-pocket, in addition to the at least onepocket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may be incommunication with the at least one pocket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may bedisposed between the at least one pocket and an exterior-surface of theblanket.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanketthat may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may beconfigured to contain (hold, store) at least one handheld toy.

It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide ablanket that may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket maycomprise a second-tethering means, wherein the second-tethering meansmay removably attach at least one handheld toy to the second-pocket.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention aredescribed herein with specificity so as to make the present inventionunderstandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect tohow to practice the present invention and how to make the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale inorder to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of thesevarious elements and embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elementsthat are known to be common and well understood to those in the industryare not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the variousembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment a blanket, shown in a flatconfiguration from a front view.

FIG. 2( a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket in a process ofbeing rolled into a sleeping bag configuration, shown from alongitudinal side view.

FIG. 2( b) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket, shown in asleeping bag configuration, shown from a longitudinal side view, andshowing an edge-attachment-means.

FIG. 2( c) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket, shown in asleeping bag configuration, from a longitudinal side view, and onepockets.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket removably attachedto a stroller.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket comprising an innerpocket, shown in a flat configuration and from a perspective view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A blanket with multiple functionality is disclosed and described. Asystem for organizing children's articles with the blanket is alsodisclosed and described. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiplefunctionality may comprise the blanket functioning as a normal blanket,i.e. to provide comfort and protection from the elements to a user. Invarious exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprisethe blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of the blanket tovarious objects, such as to strollers (e.g. by removably attaching toframe-members of the stroller) and to child-carriers. As used herein,“child-carrier” refers to infant-carriers and car-seats, includingbooster car-seats, wherein in car-seats may be used for infants,toddlers, children, and small adults. In various exemplary embodiments,this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning topermit holding (containment) of various articles in at least one pocket.The at least one pocket may be in direct communication with the blanket.In some embodiments, the at least one pocket and the blanket mayconstructed as a singled finished article of manufacture. Such articlesmay comprise handheld items, i.e. items that may be held in one hand ofan infant, toddler, child, or small adult. Such articles may comprise:baby bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, handheld snacks, handheld food,pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheld books, and the like.Such articles may be designated with 900 series reference numerals inthis disclosure. The number of articles held (contained) is limited by asize of the at least one pocket and by a size of the blanket. In someembodiments, the at least one pocket may further comprise a means forremovably tethering (leashing) the various articles to the at least onepocket, such that loss of the article may be mitigated.

In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments andapplications of the present invention, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions aremade, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. It is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment a blanket 100, shown in a flatconfiguration from a front view. Blanket 100 may comprise: a periphery,two-surfaces (e.g. 109 and 110), and at least one pocket 200. Theperiphery may comprise four-edges. The four-edges may comprise: afirst-edge 101, a second-edge 102, a third-edge 103, and a fourth-edge104. First-edge 101 may be in communication with second-edge 102 andfourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may also be in communication withthird-edge 103. Third-edge 103 may also be in communication with thefourth-edge 104. In some embodiments, this communication may be directphysical contact, such that first-edge 101, second-edge 102, third-edge103, and fourth-edge 104 may all be constructed as a single finishedarticle of manufacture.

In some embodiments, the four-edges may also comprise four-corners. Thefour-corners may comprise: a first-corner 105, a second-corner 106, athird-corner 107, and a fourth-corner 108. First-corner 105 may linkfirst-edge 101 to second-edge 102. Second-corner may link second-edge102 to third-edge 103. Third-corner may link third-edge 103 tofourth-edge 104. Fourth-corner 108 may link fourth-edge 104 tofirst-edge 101.

In some embodiments, first-edge 101 may be substantially parallel tothird-edge 103. First-edge 101 may be substantially separated fromthird-edge 103 by a length of second-edge 102 and a length offourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may be substantially parallel tofourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may be substantially separated fromfourth-edge 104 by a length of first-edge 101 and a length of third-edge103. In some embodiments, first-edge 101 and third-edge 103 may havesubstantially similar lengths. In some embodiments, second-edge 102 andfourth-edge 104 may have substantially similar lengths. The lengths offirst-edge 101 and third-edge 103 may be different than the lengths ofsecond-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104. The geometric relationships betweenthe various four-edges discussed above in this paragraph may be withrespect to when blanket 100 may be laid out flat upon a flat surface.

These four-edges may bound the two-surfaces. The two-surfaces maycomprise a first-surface 109 and a second-surface 110 disposedoppositely of first-surface 109. See the FIG. 2 series of figures forsecond-surface 111. First-surface 109 may be depicted in all thefigures. Each of the two-surfaces may comprise an exterior-surface 111,i.e. exterior in the sense that a user may interact and physically toucheither exterior-surface 111.

In some embodiments, the two-surfaces may be made of one piece offabric. In some embodiments, the two-surface may be made from two piecesof fabric. When two pieces of fabric may be used to form thetwo-surfaces, an interior-space disposed between the two-surfaces may beformed. In some embodiments, this interior-space may be filled with aninterior-insulating-material. For example, and without limiting thescope of the present invention, this interior-insulating material maycomprise down feathers.

In some embodiments, the four-edges may comprise anedge-attachment-means 112. Edge-attachment-means 112 of any of thefour-edges may be configured to removably attach to anyedge-attachment-means 112 of the four-edges. In some embodiments,edge-attachment-means 112 may be selected from one or more of the groupcomprising Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and the like.Velcro® as used herein may be a removable fastening system comprising aplurality of hooks on one surface and a complimentary plurality of loopsof on another surface.

For example, in embodiments wherein edge-attachment-means 112 comprisesVelcro®, edge-attachment-means 112 may be structurally arranged asfollows: along each of the four-edges, there may be alternating regionsof a plurality of hooks, which may alternate with a complimentaryplurality of loops. In some embodiments, these alternating regions maycomprise one by one inch squares located along each of the four-edges.For example, edge-attachment-means 112 as depicted in FIG. 1 may be thisembodiment. In other embodiments, these alternating regions may be ofdifferent dimensions.

FIG. 2( a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket 100 in a processof being rolled into a sleeping bag configuration, shown from alongitudinal side view. FIG. 2( b) depicts an exemplary embodiment ofblanket 100, shown in a sleeping bag configuration, shown from alongitudinal side view, and showing edge-attachment-means 112. FIG. 2(c) depicts an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2( b), showing the sleepingbag configuration, from a longitudinal side view, and at least onepocket 200.

In some embodiments (e.g. in the FIG. 2 series of figures), whenedge-attachment-means 112 (e.g. Velcro®) of second-edge 102 may beremovably attached to edge-attachment-means 112 of fourth-edge 104, andedge-attachment-means 112 of third-edge 103 may removably attach toitself to form the sleeping bag configuration. Such a sleeping bagconfiguration of blanket 100 may be used to wrap around an infant,toddler, a child, a small adult, and the like.

Note in the FIG. 2 series of figures, edge-attachment-means 112 mayfurther comprise a plurality of straps. Each strap may comprise twoterminal ends, wherein one terminal end may be attached to blanket 100(e.g. by stitching) and the other remaining terminal end may compriseVelcro®. In some embodiments, any two perpendicular edges (e.g. 101 and102, 102 and 103, 103 and 104, or 104 and 101) may only comprise theplurality of straps, such that the Velcro® terminals ends of the strapsmay removably attach to the two remaining edges, atedge-attachment-means 112 of those two edges which do not comprise theplurality of straps, wherein complimentary Velcro® may be located. Insome embodiments, all four edges may comprise the plurality of straps,wherein one terminal end has Velcro®. In some embodiments, each strap ofthe plurality of straps may be removable, i.e. each terminal end maycomprise Velcro® or some other attachment means. In some embodiments thestraps may have a means for adjusting strap length. In some embodiments,the straps may be six inches or less.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket removably 100 attachedto a stroller 810. In some embodiments, each edge-attachment means 112may be configured to removably attach to a frame-member 811 of stroller810, as depicted in FIG. 3 or to removably attach to a child-carrier(not depicted). Removable attachment of blanket 100 to stroller 810 maybe such that the user riding within stroller 810 may receive thebenefits of blanket 100, i.e. blanket 100 may substantially cover theuser and/or the user may be able to access at least one pocket 200and/or second-pocket 300. In some embodiments, edge-attachment-means 112may be selected from one or more of the group comprising hooks, bungeeswith connectors, Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and thelike. For example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, edge-attachment-means 112 may comprise a plurality of plastichooks wherein each plastic hook may be configured to removably clip ontoframe-member 811. For example, and without limiting the scope of thepresent invention, edge-attachment-means 112 may comprise a plurality ofshort straps comprising Velcro® wherein each short strap may beconfigured to wrap around frame-member 811 such that each short strapmay Velcro® to itself. In such embodiments, the short straps may be lessthan six inches in length. In some embodiments, the straps may beadjustable.

In some embodiments, the four-corners may comprise acorner-attachment-means 113. Each corner-attachment means 113 may beconfigured to removably attach to frame-member 811 of stroller 810 or toremovably attach to the child-carrier. In some embodiments,corner-attachment-means 113 may be selected from one or more of thegroup comprising hooks, bungees with connectors, Velcro®, zippers, snapconnectors, buttons, and the like. For example, and without limiting thescope of the present invention, corner-attachment-means 113 may comprisea plurality of plastic hooks wherein each plastic hook may be configuredto removably clip onto frame-member 811.

At least one pocket 200 may comprise: an opening 201 and a cavity. Seee.g. FIG. 1, FIG. 2( c), and FIG. 3. Opening 201 may provide access tothe cavity. The cavity may be of a volume configured to contain thevarious articles 900, i.e. to removably contain one or more articles900. In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may be located oneither or both of the two exterior-surfaces 111. In some embodiments, atleast one pocket 200 may be located proximally to one of theexterior-surfaces 111, separated from one (closest) exterior-surface 111by a second-pocket 300. Second-pocket 300 may be located on the oneexterior-surface 111 closest to at least one pocket 200. Second-pocket300 is discussed further in a discussion of FIG. 4, after a moredetailed discussion of at least one pocket 200.

In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of pockets 200. Such aplurality of pockets 200 may all be located on the same exterior-surface111. Such a plurality of pockets 200 may be located such that somepockets 200 may be located on one exterior-surface 111, while theremaining pockets 200 may be located on the other exterior-surface 111.A number (quantity) of pockets 200 that may be located on blanket 100 isphysically limited by the size of the blanket 100, i.e. by an availablesurface area of each exterior-surface 111.

In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise aclosure-means 203. Closure-means 203 may be configured to removably sealopening 201. In some embodiments, closure-means 203 may be selected fromthe group comprising Velcro®, Ziploc® type fasteners, zippers, snapconnectors, clips, hooks, and the like. Closure-means 203 may comprisetwo complimentary surfaces to removable mating. In some embodiments,closure-means 203 may additionally comprise a flap 212 of material whichmay removably fold over opening 201, e.g. flap 212 may be depicted inFIG. 1, FIG. 2( c), and FIG. 3.

In some embodiments, the cavity may comprise a surface-geometry. Thesurface-geometry may be configured to frictionally grip a bottle 930,such that the surface-geometry may function as a bottle-holder. Thesurface-geometry may be formed substantially from anelastomeric-material. In some embodiments, the elastomeric-material maybe selected from one or more of the material comprising various foams,gels, rubbers (including natural and/or synthetic), silicones, and thelike. Such foam materials may be further selected from one or more ofthe group comprising: Neoprene®, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)polypropylene, polyurethane foams, polystyrene (e.g. Styrofoam®), andthe like. In such foam materials, a foam density may be varied by choiceof formulation to result in desirable compressibility properties.Likewise, with the non-foam elastomeric-materials (e.g. rubber and/orsilicone) durometer may be varied by choice of formulation to result indesirable elastomeric properties.

In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise aninsulated-pocket. The insulated-pocket may function to slow down heatingor cooling of articles 900 held within the cavity. The insulated-pocketmay be formed by insulating-materials substantially bounding the cavity.The insulating-materials may comprise insulation properties. Theinsulating-materials may comprise materials with low thermalconductivity that may be typical for insulating beverages in cupholders. In some embodiments, the insulating-materials may be selectedfrom one or more of the group comprising EVA foams, polyurethane foams,polystyrene foams (e.g. Styrofoam®), polypropylene foam, and the like.In some embodiments, the insulating-materials may be selected from oneor more of the group comprising Neoprene®, gels, and the like.

Alternatively or in addition to, the insulated-pocket may be formed bystructure bounding the cavity, wherein the structure encapsulates airpockets around the cavity. For example, and without limiting the scopeof the present invention, this structure may comprise a plurality ofclosed cells, wherein each cell encapsulates air.

In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise surfaces (e.g.surface-geometry or cavity-surface) wherein the surfaces may be easilycleanable, wipeable, and/or sanitizable. This function may beaccomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which maybe smooth. This function may be accomplished by at least one pocket 200comprising structure which may minimize surface textures. This functionmay be accomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structurewhich may mitigate against excessive folding. This function may beaccomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which maynot be porous.

In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise at least onecontents-tether 205. For example, see FIG. 1, the FIG. 2 series and FIG.3. At least one contents-tether 205 may be configured to removablyattach articles 900 to at least one contents-tether 205. At least onecontents-tether 205 may comprise a tether and acontents-attachment-means 209.

The tether may comprises a first-terminal-end 206 and asecond-terminal-end disposed opposite of first-terminal-end 206. Thesecond-terminal-end may be attached to a cavity-surface. Thecavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the cavity. The tether maybe strapping or cordage. The tether may have elastomeric properties,e.g. resembling Bungee® cord elastomeric properties. In someembodiments, the second-terminal-end may be either permanently attachedto the cavity-surface or removably attached to the cavity-surface. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, thesecond-terminal-end may be attached to the cavity-surface by stitching(e.g. when both the second-terminal-end and the cavity-surface may befabric type materials), stapling, riveting, ultrasonic welding, heatwelding, solvent bonding, chemical adhesive, and the like.

Contents-attachment-means 209 may removably attach articles 900 tofirst-terminal-end 206. Contents-attachment-means 209 may be permanentlyattached to first-terminal-end 206. Contents-attachment-means 209 may beintegral with first-terminal-end 206.

In some embodiments, contents-attachment-means 209 may comprise a loop210 or a clip, wherein loop 210 and the clip may be configured toremovably attach to bottle 930 and/or to removably attach to a pacifier940. Contents-attachment-means 209 may comprise typical fastenerhardware, such as rings, carabiners, side release buckles, snaps, andthe like. For example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, contents-attachment-means 209 in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 series, andFIG. 3 that may connect to pacifier 904 may be a ring; whereas,contents-attachment-means 209 that may connect to bottle 930 may loop210. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be a sealed loop with a definedand non-adjustable diameter. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be thesealed loop, but with an adjustable diameter. In some embodiments, loop210 may be openable. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be eitheradjustable or non-adjustable. In some embodiments, the clip may bespring loaded.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket 100 comprising aninner pocket 300, as a second-pocket 300, shown in a flat configurationand from a perspective view. In some embodiments, blanket 100 maycomprise second-pocket 300. Second-pocket 300 may comprise asecond-opening 301 and a second-cavity. Second-opening 301 may provideaccess to the second-cavity. The second-cavity may be of a second-volumeconfigured to contain articles 900. Second-pocket 300 may be located incommunication with at least one pocket 200. In some embodiments,second-pocket 300 may be disposed between at least one pocket 200 andone of the exterior-surfaces 111 of the two-surfaces (e.g. 109 or 110).In such embodiments, second-pocket 300 may be an inner-pocket 300 and atleast one pocket 200 may be an external pocket. Such an embodiment, maybe depicted in FIG. 4, wherein at least one pocket 200 may be theexternal pocket, and inner-pocket 300 may be disposed betweenexterior-surface 111 and at least one pocket 200.

In some embodiments, second-pocket 300 may comprise asecond-closure-means. The second-closure-means may be configured toremovably seal second-opening 301. In some embodiments, thesecond-closure-means may be selected from the group comprising Velcro®,Ziploc® type fasteners, zippers, snap connectors, clips, hooks, and thelike. In some embodiments, the second-closure-means may additionallycomprise a flap of material which may removably fold over second-opening301.

In some embodiments, second-pocket 300 may comprise at least onesecond-contents-tether 305. See e.g. FIG. 4. At least onesecond-contents-tether 305 may be configured to removably attacharticles 900 to at least one second-contents-tether 305. At least onesecond-contents-tether 305 may comprise a second-tether and asecond-contents-attachment-means 309. The second-tether may comprise athird-terminal-end 306 and a fourth-terminal-end disposed opposite ofthird-terminal-end 306. The fourth-terminal-end may be attached to asecond-cavity-surface. The second-cavity-surface may be an exteriorsurface of the second-cavity. Second-contents-attachment-means 309 mayremovably attach articles 900 to third-terminal-end 306.

The second-tether may be strapping or cordage. The second-tether mayhave elastomeric properties, e.g. resembling Bungee® cord elastomericproperties. In some embodiments, the fourth-terminal-end may be eitherpermanently attached to the second-cavity-surface or removably attachedto the second-cavity-surface. For example, and without limiting thescope of the present invention, the fourth-terminal-end may be attachedto the second-cavity-surface by stitching (e.g. when both thefourth-terminal-end and the second-cavity-surface may be fabric typematerials), stapling, riveting, ultrasonic welding, heat welding,solvent bonding, chemical adhesive, and the like.

In some embodiments, second-contents-attachment-means 309 may beconfigured to removably attach to one or more articles 900, whereinarticles 900 may be are handheld toys 950. For example and withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention,second-contents-attachment-means 309 may comprise a ring with aplurality of clips attached to the ring. Each clip of the plurality ofclips may removably attach to a given handheld toy 950. The ring mayalso be attached to third-terminal-end 306. In such embodiments, asingle second-contents-attachment-means 309 may removably attach to theplurality of handheld toys 950.

Regarding attaching at least one pocket 200 and/or second-pocket 300 toexterior-surface 111, and/or attaching at least one pocket 200 tosecond-pocket 300, such an attachment means may be permanent. In someembodiments, such an attachment means may be by stitching, stapling,riveting, ultrasonic welding, heat welding, solvent bonding, chemicaladhesive (e.g. gluing), and the like. Obviously, one of ordinary skillin the art will appreciate that some attachment means may be dependentupon the underlying materials of construction to be joined. For example,and without limiting the scope of the present invention, some of theabove named attachment means (e.g. ultrasonic welding and solventbonding) may be more suitable for joining two plastic (or synthetic)materials and not appropriate for joining two or more pieces of cottonfabric.

Regarding attaching at least one pocket 200 and/or second-pocket 300 toexterior-surface 111, and/or attaching at least one pocket 200 tosecond-pocket 300, such an attachment means may be removable. In someembodiments, such an attachment means may be by Velcro®, zippers, snapconnectors, buttons, and the like.

In some embodiments, blanket 100 may be substantially constructed ofvarious fabrics, wherein the resulting blanket 100 may function toprovide comfort, warmth, and/or protection from the elements to the userof blanket 100. Such fabrics may be typical of the materials ordinarilyused to in manufacturing blankets for infants, toddlers, and/or smallchildren. Such fabrics may be soft. Such fabrics may be selected fromnatural and/or synthetic materials. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, natural materials may be selectedfrom one or more of the group comprising cotton, silk, wool, linen,hemp, leather, and the like. For example, and without limiting the scopeof the present invention, synthetic materials may be selected from oneor more of the group comprising polypropylene, polyester, acrylic,nylon, rayon, acetate, spandex, and the like. In some embodiments,first-surface 109 and/or second-surface 110 may compriseexterior-surface 111 that may be constructed of a waterproof and/or awindproof material, such as Gore-Tex®.

With respect to use of “substantially,” in the above paragraph, noteblanket 100 may comprise other materials. For example, in someembodiments, metals may be employed in the various fastener andattachment means, e.g. with zippers. For example, in some embodiments,foams may be employed in embodiments which may comprise theinsulated-pocket. For example, in some embodiments, various elastomersmay be employed in embodiments which may comprise the bottle-holder toform fit and frictionally grip bottle 930.

Note with respect to the materials of construction disclosed herein, itis not desired nor intended to thereby unnecessarily limit the presentinvention by reason of such restricted disclosure.

In some embodiments, the present invention may comprise a system fororganizing children's articles with blanket 100. Such children'sarticles may comprise: baby bottles, Sippy cups, water bottles, handheldsnacks, handheld food, pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheldbooks, and the like. Such articles may be designated with 900 seriesreference numerals in this disclosure. Such organizing may entailproviding a means for removable storing (containing) of the children'sarticles within blanket 100. Such organizing may entail providing ameans for mitigating against loss of children's articles (e.g. byinclusion of tethers and/or leashes to removably attach to suchchildren's articles, linking them to blanket 100). Such systems maycomprise bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940, at least one handheld toy 950,and blanket 100 as described and disclosed above.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,blanket 100 may comprise: four-edges, two-surfaces, at least one pocket200, and second-pocket 300. The four-edges may define the periphery ofblanket 100. The four-edges may comprise: first-edge 101, second-edge102, third-edge 103, and fourth-edge 104. First-edge 101 may be incommunication with second-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102may also be in communication with third-edge 103. Third-edge 103 may becommunication with fourth-edge 104.

Each of the four-edges may comprise edge-attachment-means 112.Edge-attachment-means 112 of any of the four-edges may be configured toremovably attach to any edge-attachment-means 112 of the four-edges orto frame-member 811 of stroller 810 or to removably attach to thechild-carrier.

The two-surfaces may comprise first-surface 109 and second-surface 110disposed oppositely of first-surface 109. The four-edges bound both thetwo-surfaces. Each of the two-surfaces (e.g. 109 and 110) may compriseexterior-surface 111.

At least one pocket 200 may comprises opening 201 and the cavity.Opening 201 may provide access to the cavity. The cavity may be of avolume configured to contain the children's articles 900, i.e. toremovably contain one or more articles 900. The cavity may be of thevolume configured to contain bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940.

At least one pocket 200 may comprise at least one contents-tether 205.At least one contents-tether 205 may be configured to removably attachbottle 930 and/or pacifier 940 to at least one contents-tether 205. Atleast one contents-tether 205 may comprise the tether andcontents-attachment-means 209.

The tether may comprise first-terminal-end 206 and thesecond-terminal-end disposed opposite of first-terminal-end 206. Thesecond-terminal-end may be attached to the cavity-surface. Thecavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the cavity.

Contents-attachment-means 209 may removably attach bottle 930 and/orpacifier 940 to first-terminal-end 206.

Second-pocket 300 may comprise second-opening 301 and the second-cavity.Second-opening 301 may provide access to the second-cavity. Thesecond-cavity may be of the second-volume configured to contain at leastone handheld toy 950. Second-pocket 300 may be disposed between at leastone pocket 200 and one of the exterior-surfaces 111 of the two-surfaces(109 or 110), such that second-pocket 300 may be the inner-pocket and atleast one pocket 200 may be the external pocket.

Second-pocket 300 may comprise at least one second-contents-tether 305.At least one second-contents-tether 305 may be configured to removablyattach at least one handheld toy 950 to at least onesecond-contents-tether 305. At least one second-contents-tether 305 maycomprise the second-tether and second-contents-attachment-means 309.

The second-tether may comprise third-terminal-end 306 and thefourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of third-terminal-end 306. Thefourth-terminal-end may be attached to the second-cavity-surface. Thesecond-cavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the second-cavity.

Second-contents-attachment-means 309 may removably attach at least onehandheld toy 950 to third-terminal-end 306.

A blanket with multiple functionality and a system for organizingchildren's articles with the blanket have been described. The foregoingdescription of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention hasbeen presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It isnot intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the preciseform disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in lightof the above teaching without departing from the spirit of theinvention.

While the invention has been described in connection with what ispresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A blanket with multiple functionality, whereinthe blanket comprises: four-edges defining a periphery of the blanket,wherein the four-edges comprise: a first-edge, a second-edge, athird-edge, and a fourth-edge, wherein the first-edge is incommunication with the second-edge and the fourth-edge, wherein thesecond-edge is also in communication with the third-edge, wherein thethird-edge is also in communication with the fourth-edge; two-surfaces,wherein the two-surfaces comprise a first-surface and a second-surfacedisposed oppositely of the first-surface; wherein the four-edges boundboth the two-surfaces; wherein each of the two-surfaces comprises anexterior-surface; and at least one pocket, wherein the at least onepocket comprises an opening to a cavity, wherein the cavity is of avolume configured to contain various articles; wherein the at least onepocket is located on either of the exterior-surfaces or locatedproximally to one of the exterior-surfaces, separated from the oneexterior-surface by a second-pocket which is located on the oneexterior-surface.
 2. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein thefour-edges comprises four-corners, wherein the four-corners comprise: afirst-corner, a second-corner, a third-corner, and a fourth-corner,wherein the first-corner links the first-edge to the second-edge,wherein the second-corner links the second-edge to the third-edge,wherein the third-corner links the third-edge to the fourth-edge, andwherein the fourth-corner links the fourth-edge to the first-edge. 3.The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the first-edge issubstantially parallel to the third-edge, wherein the first-edge issubstantially separated from the third-edge by the second-edge and thefourth-edge; wherein the second-edge is substantially parallel to thefourth-edge, wherein the second-edge is substantially separated from thefourth-edge by the first-edge and the third-edge.
 4. The blanketaccording to claim 2, wherein each of the four-edges comprises anedge-attachment-means, wherein the edge-attachment-means of any of thefour-edges is configured to removably attach to anyedge-attachment-means of the four-edges.
 5. The blanket according toclaim 4, wherein when the edge-attachment-means of the first-edge isremovably attached to the edge-attachment-means of the third-edge, theedge-attachment-means of the fourth-edge removably attaches to itself toform a sleeping bag.
 6. The blanket according to claim 4, wherein eachedge-attachment means is configured to removably attach to aframe-member of a stroller or to removably attach to a child-carrier. 7.The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocketcomprises a closure-means, wherein the closure-means is configured toremovably seal the opening.
 8. The blanket according to claim 1, whereinthe cavity comprises a surface-geometry configured to frictionally gripa bottle, such that the surface-geometry functions as a bottle-holder.9. The blanket according to claim 8, wherein the surface-geometry isformed substantially from an elastomeric-material.
 10. The blanketaccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocket comprises aninsulated-pocket, wherein the insulated-pocket is formed byinsulating-materials substantially bounding the cavity, wherein theinsulating-materials comprise insulation properties.
 11. The blanketaccording to claim 10, wherein the insulating-materials are selectedfrom one or more of the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetatefoams, polyurethane foams, polystyrene foams, and polypropylene foam.12. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocketcomprises at least one contents-tether, wherein the at least onecontents-tether is configured to removably attach the article to the atleast one contents-tether, wherein the at least one contents-tethercomprises: a tether, wherein the tether comprises a first-terminal-endand a second-terminal-end disposed opposite of the first-terminal-end,wherein the second-terminal-end is attached to a cavity-surface, whereinthe cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the cavity; acontents-attachment-means, wherein the contents-attachment-meansremovably attaches the article to the first-terminal-end.
 13. Theblanket according to claim 12, wherein the second-terminal-end is eitherpermanently attached to the cavity-surface or removably attached to thecavity-surface.
 14. The blanket according to claim 12, wherein thecontents-attachment-means is a loop configured to removably attach to abottle or a clip for removably attaching to a pacifier.
 15. The blanketaccording to claim 1, wherein the blanket comprises a second-pocket,wherein the second-pocket comprises a second-opening to a second-cavity,wherein the second-cavity is of a second-volume configured to containvarious articles, wherein the second-pocket is located in communicationwith the at least one pocket.
 16. The blanket according to claim 15,wherein the second-pocket is disposed between the at least one pocketand one of the exterior-surfaces of the two-surfaces, such that thesecond-pocket is an inner-pocket and the at least one pocket is anexternal pocket.
 17. The blanket according to claim 15, wherein thesecond-pocket comprises at least one second-contents-tether, wherein theat least one second-contents-tether is configured to removably attachthe article to the at least one second-contents-tether, wherein the atleast one second-contents-tether comprises: a second-tether, wherein thesecond-tether comprises a third-terminal-end and a fourth-terminal-enddisposed opposite of the third-terminal-end, wherein thefourth-terminal-end is attached to a second-cavity-surface, wherein thesecond-cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the second-cavity; asecond-contents-attachment-means, wherein thesecond-contents-attachment-means removably attaches the article to thethird-terminal-end.
 18. The blanket according to claim 17, wherein thefourth-terminal-end is either permanently attached to thesecond-cavity-surface or removably attached to thesecond-cavity-surface.
 19. The blanket according to claim 17, whereinthe second-contents-attachment-means is configured to removably attachto one or more articles, wherein the articles are handheld toys.
 20. Asystem for organizing children's articles with a blanket, wherein thesystem comprises: a bottle or a pacifier; at least one handheld toy; ablanket, wherein the blanket comprises: four-edges defining a peripheryof the blanket, wherein the four-edges comprise: a first-edge, asecond-edge, a third-edge, and a fourth-edge, wherein the first-edge isin communication with the second-edge and the fourth-edge, wherein thesecond-edge is also in communication with the third-edge, wherein thethird-edge is communication with the fourth-edge; wherein each of thefour-edges comprises an edge-attachment-means, wherein theedge-attachment-means of any of the four-edges is configured toremovably attach to any edge-attachment-means of the four-edges or to aframe-member of a stroller or to removably attach to a child-carrier;two-surfaces, wherein the two-surfaces comprise a first-surface and asecond-surface disposed oppositely of the first-surface; wherein thefour-edges bound both the two-surfaces; wherein each of the two-surfacescomprises an exterior-surface; at least one pocket, wherein the at leastone pocket comprises an opening to a cavity, wherein the cavity is of avolume configured to contain the bottle or the pacifier; wherein the atleast one pocket comprises at least one contents-tether, wherein the atleast one contents-tether is configured to removably attach the bottleor the pacifier to the at least one contents-tether, wherein the atleast one contents-tether comprises: a tether, wherein the tethercomprises a first-terminal-end and a second-terminal-end disposedopposite of the first-terminal-end, wherein the second-terminal-end isattached to a cavity-surface, wherein the cavity-surface is an exteriorsurface of the cavity; a contents-attachment-means, wherein thecontents-attachment-means removably attaches the bottle or the pacifierto the first-terminal-end; and a second-pocket, wherein thesecond-pocket comprises a second-opening to a second-cavity, wherein thesecond-cavity is of a second-volume configured to contain the at leastone handheld toy, wherein the second-pocket is disposed between the atleast one pocket and one of the exterior-surfaces of the two-surfaces,such that the second-pocket is an inner-pocket and the at least onepocket is an external pocket; wherein the second-pocket comprises atleast one second-contents-tether, wherein the at least onesecond-contents-tether is configured to removably attach the at leastone handheld toy to the at least one second-contents-tether, wherein theat least one second-contents-tether comprises: a second-tether, whereinthe second-tether comprises a third-terminal-end and afourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of the third-terminal-end, whereinthe fourth-terminal-end is attached to a second-cavity-surface, whereinthe second-cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the second-cavity;and a second-contents-attachment-means, wherein thesecond-contents-attachment-means removably attaches the at least onehandheld toy to the third-terminal-end.